Challenge Profile: Katie Lazor

Meet Katie, a passionate locavore and the executive director of Eat Denver–Denver’s independent restaurant network. She shares her thoughts about eating locally and tips to succeed at the challenge!

Why did you decide to join the challenge for the second year in a row?

I love the idea of the Slow Food challenge. For me, it is all about self awareness of what I’m currently buying and eating. September is one of the easiest times to be a locavore and is a fun time to be more creative with my ingredients.  

What are the economic benefits supporting locally-owned restaurants who source locally?

Sourcing locally is a chance [for restaurants] to work with other local companies to continue growing our food system. Restaurants have an incredible buying power, and a ripple effect. When chefs speak out, they have a captive audience. They have a voice for consumer behavior and interest.

For example, Chef’s Collaborative did a fascinating economic impact study with a pilot group of seven restaurants on the front range. They self-reported spending 3.7 million collectively from over 100, which translates to a 7.4 million impact on local economy. [Read more about the study here]. The study illustrates the buying power of restaurants, and how much power their buying practices have on the local economy.

What tips do you have for first-timers?

Visit Eat Denver’s chef-demo booth from 10-11am at Denver Union Station! The chef teaches shoppers how to use seasonal ingredients. You can stand and watch the demo, have a sample, and then go buy the ingredients to make the dish right at the farmers market.

Host a dinner party to extend that challenge to your friends and family in a fun way!

Do your research to know what types of farms are at your local farmer’s market and what are the market’s requirements are for purveyors. Ask questions to know that all food at your farmers market is locally produced.